Finep announces innovation financing for Brazil's North, Northeast, and Center-West

Finep, the public company linked to Brazil's Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, has announced a new financial package to boost innovation in the North, Northeast, and Center-West regions. To reduce regional inequalities, these areas can access financing for up to 100% of project costs, whereas other regions typically receive between 70% and 90% in direct credit.

The funding targets high-impact innovation, technological sovereignty, and productivity gains. It includes specific lines for acquiring machinery, equipment, and IT goods to immediately expand productive capacity. Additionally, indirect credit through partner financial agents has been made more flexible, allowing large companies with annual gross operating revenues above R$ 300 million to access funds if the projects are regional.

In a separate initiative, the FIP Conexões Startups fund—a joint venture between BNDES and Finep—has received 19 proposals from managers interested in overseeing the vehicle. The fund aims to mobilize up to R$ 250 million to support early-stage startups with annual gross revenues of up to R$ 20 million. BNDESPAR will commit up to R$ 100 million, while Finep will contribute R$ 50 million from the National Fund for Scientific and Technological Development (FNDCT).